Pet Dental Care in Ames, IA

Contrary to popular belief, “dog breath” is not normal. Nor is it enjoyable for you or your pet.

As part of your pet’s annual wellness appointment, your veterinarian will perform a comprehensive oral exam. Based on the size, age, breed, and health of your pet, the doctor will make recommendations for appropriate pet dental care and oral health at that time.

What’s the worst that could happen?

You might be thinking, so their breath is a little stinky…it can’t be that big of a deal, right? Without proper dental care (every 6 to 12 months, just like other members of your family), dogs and cats get periodontal disease. In addition to causing pain and sensitivity in the mouth, periodontal disease has been associated with the spread of bacteria to the heart, kidneys, and liver.

What happens at a dental appointment?

To help keep the animals comfortable and calm, they receive monitoring and support (just as any other veterinary surgical patient), including: continual monitoring when anesthesia is used, intravenous (IV) fluids, and a blanket to maintain his or her body temperature.

yellow lab looking happy and showing teeth after getting that dog teeth cleaning in ames ia

pure bread dog having dental cleaning under anaesthesia

Our dental veterinary services include:

Professional dental cleaning (prophylaxis) removes the plaque and tartar (calculus) above and below the gum line. We polish the teeth, probing and exploring for periodontal disease and chart these findings.
Digital dental radiographs or x-rays help us to find problems in the teeth, and below the gum line that cannot be seen with our eyes, helping us to treat them promptly. Digital imagery allows us to send images to specialists for consultation if needed.
Dental extractions remove teeth that are causing chronic pain or harboring harmful bacteria and disease.
Periodontal therapy treats the gums and underlying tissues for periodontal disease caused by bacteria. Gingivitis is reversible. When periodontal disease is detected and treated early we have a better chance of preventing advanced disease and dental extractions.

Our staff is continually trained on the top and most up-to-date dental care practices, so you can be sure your pet is receiving the best of the best. In the event that additional dental services (such as root canal therapy or more advanced periodontal therapy) are necessary, we are happy to refer you to a trusted clinic.

Dental hygiene, like in humans, is very important for your pets overall health. Dr. Jarod recommends brushing your pet's teeth at least two times weekly with animal-appropriate toothpaste. During your pet's routine physical exam, the doctor will examine your pet's teeth and gum line. At this time they will discuss whether or not a dental cleaning should be performed.

Dentals are typically an out-patient procedure. We normally schedule dentals on Mondays and Fridays. All dental patients must be fasted after 10:00 PM the night before their procedure, and then be dropped off at the clinic between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM the morning of their procedure. Providing water is always okay! Pick-up for dental patients is usually the same day; however, the doctor may choose to keep patients overnight if they had multiple extractions.

We also carry a product called Oravet chews that help dogs to brush their teeth. Many times the act of brushing is just not an easy routine for owners, so feel free to ask about other available options if you are curious!

Antibiotics prior to the dental may be recommended, and usually will be continued a short time after the dental. I also encourage bloodwork prior to the dental to evaluate all the organs, and make sure anesthesia is not an increased risk.